Classic Margherita Pizza
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Embark on a culinary journey to Italy with this Classic Margherita Pizza recipe. Celebrated for its simplicity and fresh flavors, this pizza combines the vibrant taste of fresh basil, the creamy texture of mozzarella, and the rich sweetness of tomato sauce, all on a crispy, chewy crust. Perfect for pizza night or any occasion that calls for a touch of Italian flair, this Margherita Pizza is sure to delight everyone at the table.
WEEKLY CLEARANCE
Ingredients:
- 1 ball of pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup tomato sauce (preferably homemade or high-quality store-bought)
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves
- Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling
- Salt, to taste
- 1 clove of garlic, minced (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to its highest setting, typically between 475°F (245°C) to 500°F (260°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to preheat as well.
- On a lightly floured surface, stretch out the pizza dough into a 12-inch round. Transfer to a piece of parchment paper for easy transfer to the oven.
- Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. If using, sprinkle the minced garlic over the sauce.
- Evenly distribute the slices of fresh mozzarella cheese over the sauce. Drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil on top and season with a pinch of salt.
- Carefully transfer the pizza (with the parchment paper) to the preheated pizza stone or a baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
- Remove the pizza from the oven and immediately top with fresh basil leaves. Drizzle with a bit more olive oil if desired.
- Slice and serve hot.
Enjoy this Classic Margherita Pizza with its perfect blend of flavors and textures, a testament to the timeless appeal of Italian cuisine. Whether made for a family dinner or a gathering of friends, it's a recipe that's sure to impress.